Movers and Shakers
Definition
- Movers and Shakers: Influential and powerful individuals who drive change and innovation, originally referring to divine figures before applying to influential humans.
Related Terms
- Game Changers
- Change Makers
Synonyms
- Powerhouses, Bigwigs, Influencers, Heavy Hitters
Antonyms
- Nonentity, Nobody, Minor Player, Small Fry
Expressions and Idioms
- Pull Strings: Exert influence to gain an advantage.
- Clout Chaser: Someone who seeks influence or fame, often shamelessly.
Humor-Filled Quotes
- “Behind every successful person lies a pack of haters.” - Eminem
- “Never follow anyone else’s path, unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost.” - Ellen Degeneres
Proverbs
- “The influence of a mother is like a fountain, which flows and sustains an abundance of life.”
- “A single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows.” - St. Francis of Assisi
Inspirational Literature and References
-
Books:
- “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie
- “Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion” by Robert B. Cialdini
-
Movies:
- “The Social Network” – the birth of Facebook and digital influence.
- “The Pursuit of Happyness” – overcoming obstacles to change one’s destiny.
-
Poetry:
- “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley
-
Songs:
- “Titanium” by David Guetta feat. Sia – empowerment and resilience.
- “We Are The Champions” by Queen – anthem of success and influence.
Quizzes
### What does "movers and shakers" mean in modern usage?
- [x] Influential and powerful individuals who drive change and innovation.
- [ ] People who dance to dubstep.
- [ ] The newest version of vibrating exercise equipment.
- [ ] Superheroes who moonlight as bartenders.
> **Explanation:** "Movers and shakers" refers to people with significant influence and power, driving change and innovation in society.
### Which of these is synonymous with "movers and shakers"?
- [ ] Wallflowers
- [x] Game Changers
- [ ] Couch Potatoes
- [ ] Monday Stragglers
> **Explanation:** "Game Changers" is another term for influential and powerful individuals capable of effecting change, much like "movers and shakers."
### True or False: "Movers and shakers" originally referred to dancers in the 18th century.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** It originally referred to God and divine influence but shifted to refer to influential and powerful humans in the 19th century.
### "Pull Strings" means to:
- [x] Use influence to get things done.
- [ ] Perform as a puppeteer.
- [ ] Practice an intense workout.
- [ ] Sing without vocal training.
> **Explanation:** "Pull Strings" means to use one’s influence or advantage to achieve a desired outcome, usually by manipulating others.
### Which book helps understand influence and persuasion?
- [ ] "Moby-Dick"
- [x] "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion"
- [ ] "Green Eggs and Ham"
- [ ] "The Cat in the Hat"
> **Explanation:** "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion" by Robert B. Cialdini delves into the mechanisms of influence and how to harness it effectively.
Inspired by O’Shaughnessy’s poetic muse, remember: your actions make ripples. Dare to be a mover, dare to be a shaker. 🌍✨
Best Regards,
W. T. Wittywords
